Future Food: 3-D Printed Meat

The billionaire investor and founder of Paypal, Peter Thiel, recently backed Missouri–based start-up company, Modern Meadow in a venture that will see meat and leather produced using 3-D printers, without the rearing, slaughter or transport of animals.

The topic of in vitro meat was recently discussed in our Futurist report, Edible Innovations, in which we explored test-tube meat as a means to reducing the environmental concerns of livestock farming and worldwide demand for protein-heavy foods.

Taking it to intriguing new levels, the printing technique would involve layering cells into a specific structure, such as a hamburger or steak shape, which would then be shaped into tangible and edible matter using a 3-D printer. Interestingly, this foodstuff would only have the consistency and flavor of “meat,” without being classified as real meat, widening its appeal towards vegetarians and religions that forbid the consumption of animals.

It will be interesting to see how food consumers react to Modern Meadow products when they become available for purchase. Read more about Modern Meadow here. – Samantha Fox

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Gemma brings to Homebuildlife over 8 years of experience in the interiors and design research fields. Coming from Stylesight where she worked as the Interiors Editor, she now oversees the interior design and product development directions, with an eye to colour, design and print. A graduate of Milan’s Politectico, she has previously worked with A+A Design Studio, Studio Contrepoint, NJAL and Fusion Cph.

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Laura's research and analysis help to shape Homebuildlife's design direction in the areas of design and product development, seasonal gifting, weddings and parties, and kids’ lifestyle. Before joining Homebuildlife, she worked as a journalist and stylist for several lifestyle brands, and holds a degree in Fashion and Lifestyle Journalism from the University of Creative Arts.

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